Barcelona’s pursuit of Jonathan Tah, the 29-year-old center-back from Bayer Leverkusen who becomes a free agent this summer, has been put on hold due to Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints.
**What’s the Situation?**
Earlier this week, club president Joan Laporta, sporting director Deco, and agent Pini Zahavi (who represents both Tah and coach Hansi Flick) met in Barcelona. While Flick’s contract extension was the main focus, the topic of signing Tah also surfaced.
Although initial steps had been taken toward a deal, Barça have now decided to delay the move, citing FFP regulations as the main obstacle.
**Why the Delay?**
– Barcelona rate Tah highly, especially Flick, who views him as a key addition to the backline.
– However, the club’s current wage cap and tight salary space mean they can’t register new players just yet.
– Laporta and Deco stressed that the club must first address budget flexibility and prioritize other reinforcements.
**Tah’s Perspective**
Tah is enthusiastic about joining Barcelona, but he wants a resolution soon. He doesn’t want a repeat of the drawn-out registration issues that happened with Dani Olmo last year.
– He has reportedly given Barça until May to make a final decision.
– If no clarity emerges, he could consider offers from several Premier League teams showing strong interest.
**Looking Ahead**
Barcelona have told Tah they value him and would offer a significant role, but his future at the club now hinges on whether FFP rules ease up and the club’s budget priorities allow for his inclusion.
**In short**: Both sides want the deal, but for now, Financial Fair Play is forcing everyone to hit pause.
